THG Automation is a robotics integrator that focuses, first and foremost, on welding automation.
By pairing popular collaborative bots with advanced welding tech, they give businesses ready-to-go solutions that actually work. No drama, no coding nightmares, just robots welding like they’re on an 80s music video.
It’s great for industries like automotive and manufacturing — but smaller shops or anyone looking for something beyond welding might feel left out.
Read on to learn more about:
- What THG Automation is
- Key features
- Performance
- Applications
- Advantages
- Limitations
- Comparisons
What is THG Automation?
Think of THG Automation as the ultimate matchmaker — pairing robots and welding equipment to make sparks fly (literally).
They use Universal Robots’ collaborative bots, like the UR10e and UR20, along with Fronius welding gear and other advanced technology to create plug-and-play systems. The result? A setup that’s easy to program and ready to weld right out of the box.
Their systems precisely tackle MIG and TIG welding, handling materials like carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and even titanium.
Prices? Not exactly pocket change, but worth it if you need precision without micromanaging your team.
Want to learn more about robotics integrations? Check out the full article.
Key features of THG Automation
What makes these systems worth a look?
Here’s the breakdown:
- Universal Robots as the mover and shaker: Models like the UR20 bring a 20 kg payload and a reach of 1750 mm. Why this and not the comparatively cheaper UR10e? Mainly the reach advantage of the newer model — although this is not always an advantage when you need to weld in tight spaces. The payload itself is not the deciding factor.
- Fronius welding tech steals the show: With options like Cold Metal Transfer (CMT), you get smooth, spatter-free welds even on tricky materials.
- Relatively simple systems: Their systems arrive pre-programmed and ready to weld, saving you time (and sanity). Advanced users will still require some programming skills, though!
- Flexibility for any shop: Handles everything from thin aluminum sheets to heavy-duty steel parts. They offer MIG, TIG, and even oxy-fuel cutting systems.
Performance and capabilities
These aren’t your average off-the-shelf robots. They’re the sum of high-quality parts and robotics systems, all put together with know-how — and a sprinkle of love.
Here’s why THG Automation systems perform like pros:
- Accuracy that doesn’t miss: Universal Robots deliver ±0.1 mm repeatability, which is fancy talk for “your welds will nearly always be on point.” Its TCP speed of 2 m/s is no slouch either.
- Welding automation for the real world: From tight corners to awkward geometries, these systems are meant to handle the tricky angled spaces of most fab shops.
- Ready to go, all day long: Designed for continuous operation, these setups are a very solid fit for high-production environments.
Applications of THG Automation
Who’s using THG Automation, and why?
Here’s what they’re welding up:
- Automotive and transportation: Perfect for car frames, exhaust systems, and other parts that need durability.
- Metal fab shops: Handles custom jobs, quick turnarounds, and high-precision projects super easily.
- Aerospace: Delivers solid welds that hold up under extreme conditions — a literal life-or-death matter.
Advantages of THG Automation
Why do businesses love these systems?
Here’s what they bring to the table:
- Saves you time and effort: These highly integrated, ready-made systems intend to make welding automation accessible to businesses that don’t have massive automation knowledge — of course, there’s still a learning curve involved.
- Keeps your team safe: Automating hazardous welding jobs reduces risks and makes OSHA happy.
- Consistent weld quality: Fronius tech paired with Universal Robots is a really solid option for reliable, high-quality welds.
Limitations of THG Automation
Not every system’s perfect, and THG has its quirks.
Here’s where it might not fit the bill:
- Welding-only focus: If you need your robot to handle other tasks, this setup isn’t for you. Some cobots offer easy reprogramming and inter-task adaptability. THG automation’s solutions don’t.
- Costs can climb fast: Between the robot, welding equipment, and integration, the price tag can feel steep for smaller shops. A UR20 alone will set you back $57000. You’ll have to reach out to THG for a quote but expect to pay fat stacks for these.
- Learning curve for customizations: While it’s plug-and-play, advanced tweaks might require some training. And time, which you may not have, especially if your fab shop tends to change between tasks a lot.
How does THG Automation compare with other welding automation solutions?
THG automation is not the only name in the game. There are other options to look out for if you want to automate your fab shop with high-tech collaborative robots.
Let’s take a look at other options:
- RO1 by Standard Bots: RO1 isn’t just a welder — it’s a multi-tasking six-axis titan. With a price starting at $5/hour and no coding required, it’s perfect for businesses that need flexibility beyond welding. It also handles pick and place, CNC machine tending, and other manufacturing jobs amazingly.
- Lincoln Electric Cooper Cobot: Great for welding-specific jobs but comes with a higher setup cost and a much steeper learning curve. They’ve made advancements these past few years, but they’ve got a long way to go until they reach true user-friendliness.
- Fronius TPS/i: High-end welding equipment with super-high precision, but it’s only part of the puzzle — you’ll still need a robot and integration.
- FANUC Arc Mate Series: These robots have a reputation for precision but aren’t beginner-friendly without a tailored system like THG’s to back them up. Plus, FANUC costs tend to stack up — as is common knowledge.
Summing up
THG Automation delivers solid robotic welding systems that take a lot of the stress out of precision welding.
Industries that demand flawless welds, like aerospace and automotive, will find these systems nearly indispensable – but their narrow focus on welding and high upfront costs, make them not the best fit for everyone.
If you’re looking for something versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to use, RO1 by Standard Bots is a smarter choice.
Next steps with RO1 by Standard Bots
RO1 is the six-axis cobot arm that does it all, without the steep learning curve or price tag.
- Costs half as much as comparable robots: Starts at $5/hour, with leasing options for more flexibility. Want to buy? It costs half of comparable models.
- Lifts heavy, works precisely: With an 18 kg payload and ±0.025 mm repeatability, RO1 tackles tough jobs easily.
- No coding required: Its intuitive interface makes it simple to set up and operate. Plus, its AI is on par with GPT-4, and it helps you change tasks super-easily.
- Keeps your team safe: With built-in machine vision and collision detection, RO1 works right alongside humans without risk.
- More than just welding: From assembly to material handling, RO1 brings versatility to your workflow.
Book your risk-free, 30-day onsite trial today and see how RO1 can level up your fab shop.
